Democrats make primary endorsements

Vargas closer to support of California Democratic Party

State Sen. Juan Vargas is on his way to securing the California Democratic Party endorsement in the 51st Congressional District after receiving 72 percent of the vote at the regional conference in San Diego on Saturday.

Vargas far outpaced former Sen. Denise Moreno Ducheny and newcomer John L. Brooks II. The seat is currently held by Rep. Bob Filner, D-San Diego, who is stepping down to run for mayor.

In the 52nd Congressional District, former Assemblywoman Lori Saldaña came within 1 percentage point of reaching the 70 percent threshold in the intraparty contest with Port Commissioner Scott Peters. Out of the 55 votes cast, Saldaña received 38 and Peters received 10.

Saldaña and Peters are running to unseat Rep. Brian Bilbray, R-San Diego. Saldaña will have another opportunity to get the state party endorsement next month at the convention.